Finding a new job might be on your list of New Year’s resolutions but knowing what to do to get it is the first step. Being prepared goes a long way towards being successful, and you want to make sure you make a good impression for your dream job. Here are some tips to get your foot in the door.
Think about what worked and what didn’t in your job search in the past year or two. What lessons did you learn about your approach in the past? Consider your preparedness for interviews, how you spoke about yourself, or how streamlined your resume was. Learning from your past about what you could have done better will help you in your future endeavors. Reflect on how you did previously and make lists of what helped you and what you can improve on.
Following up with your interviewer is a huge way to stand out from the crowd. Be sure to check the job posting in case the employer asks you not to reach out to them. If you don’t see anything like this, wait three to five days after submitting your application and call, email, or even go in person to ask about the availability of the position. The employer is looking at what could be dozens of applications but seeing a face or hearing a voice to go along with your resume can go a long way. When you follow up, the employer gets to see a bit of your personality, so make sure you stay professional and positive to make a good first impression. Who knows, you may even land an interview on the spot!
Prepare yourself for the interview. Most people think they can go into an interview without preparing, but not many people have the skill to think well on the spot. There are dozens of resources online that will help you find the most common interview questions, and you can probably recall a few questions in past interviews you may have stumbled over. While you’re compiling a list of the best questions and how to answer them, ask a friend or family member if they can help you with a mock interview. Having some practice can help you get your nervousness out and focus on what you can improve on. If you have any anxious habits like talking too quickly or bouncing your leg, you have time before the actual interview to focus on calming these habits. You can also gain insight into what your interviewer will see about you by asking your friend or family member to take notes on your mock interview.
This could be your big year to land the job you’ve always wanted! Make sure you stand out from other applicants by being professional and well-spoken. These tips will help you to show your future employer that you’re the perfect fit for the job, so make sure you’re ready when opportunity strikes. Remember to breathe and show them your best side.